What triggers Guillain-Barré syndrome?

Guillain-Barré syndrome is rare. The cause of it is not fully known, but most cases follow an infection with a virus or bacteria. This leads the immune system to attack the body itself

Hyderabad: Pune has reported over 20 suspected cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in just a week. Patients, both children and adults, complained of symptoms linked to contaminated food and water, which caused diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort.

But, what is Guillain-Barré syndrome?

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Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare, but life-threatening health issue in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The syndrome affects the nerves that control muscle movement as well as those that transmit pain, temperature and touch sensations.

This can result in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms, and problems in swallowing or breathing, which can be fatal.

While it is more common in adults and males, people of all ages can be affected.

Symptoms

Symptoms typically last a few weeks, with most individuals recovering without long-term, severe neurological complications.

The first symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome include weakness or tingling sensations. They usually start in the legs and can spread to the arms and face.

For some people, these symptoms can lead to paralysis of the legs, arms, or muscles in the face. In approximately one-third of people, the chest muscles are affected, making it hard to breathe.

The ability to speak and swallow may become affected in severe cases. These cases are considered life-threatening.

Most people recover fully from even the most severe cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, although some continue to experience weakness.

Causes

Guillain-Barré syndrome is rare. The cause of it is not fully known, but most cases follow an infection with a virus or bacteria. This leads the immune system to attack the body itself.

Bacteria Campylobacter jejuni, which causes gastroenteritis with symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, is the common factor in most cases.

People can also develop GBS after having the flu or other viral infections including cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and the Zika virus.

In rare instances, vaccinations may increase the risk of people getting GBS.

Occasionally, surgery can trigger the syndrome.

Treatment

There is no known cure for Guillain-Barré syndrome, but treatments can help improve its symptoms and shorten its duration.

Given the autoimmune nature of the disease, its acute phase is typically treated with immunotherapy, such as plasma exchange to remove antibodies from the blood or intravenous immunoglobulin. It is most often beneficial when initiated 7 to 14 days after symptoms appear.

In cases where muscle weakness persists after the acute phase of the illness, patients may require exercises to strengthen their muscles and restore movement.